We got the chance to talk to Burning Games and Ether Dev about their new Kickstarter for Ether Wars. This game didn’t fund last time, but have made some changes to make it more appealing to players! We talked to them about the original game, and are really excited to see them to re-launch with Burning Games!
1) Give us the ‘elevator pitch’ for Ether Wars. What sort of games is it similar too, and what’s the setting like?
It’s a sci-fi game of area control and worker placement with a twist: all your troops are represented by dice. You must place, move and roll the dice to defeat your opponents and obtain 5 pieces of Ether, the mythical power source. It has stunning art and nuanced and addictive gameplay.
2) It’s really great to see Burning Games and Ether Dev working together, how did this come about?
A couple of years ago we were demoing FAITH in a big even in our hometown. The developers of Ether Wars happened to be doing the same, and we had a chance to exchange plays and ideas. Some months later, when their game failed to meet the goal on Kickstarter, we decided to try to bring it back at the right time, which is now!
3) You’re halfway funded with 24 days left, how does that feel? What kind of feedback have you received?
A Kickstarter campaign is one of the most exhilarating things you can do, this side of bungee jumping. Backers are very enthusiastic and always eager to help, and their feedback has been very positive. We have polished the game following their advice and it really shows. Now we have to keep spreading the word and make sure as many people as possible hear about the game to complete the campaign in style.
4) What changes have you made that you think will help Ether Wars fund?
The main change is that now the English and Spanish editions are completely independent. Before, each card had info on both languages, which was a huge turnoff for many players. Apart from that, we have tweaked the graphic design and overall style of the game, and have implemented our logistical knowledge (gathered with FAITH) to lower the costs and the Kickstarter goal.
5) Do Ether Wars and Faith: the Sci-Fi RPG share the same artists/art director? We see a similar aesthetic.
Many people ask us that, but funnily enough there is no connection at all between the games. They were born apart and brought together by serendipity well after the main art was created for both. I think we may share similar sources of inspiration, though. Don’t we all?
6) Are there any plans for future expansions for the board game? Any possible tie-in with FAITH?
If Ether Wars is successfully funded we will definitely keep creating content for it. The final word is the developers’, though, and we will heed their vision for the future of the game. As for FAITH tie-ins, it’s unlikely at this point. We will create boardgames based on that Universe, but they will be tailor-made to ensure that they fit in the lore of the game.
7) If this venture is successful, do you plan on future partnerships with local or international game designers as publishers?
Yes, this is something we really want to do, find games that suit our brand and give them a fair chance in the market.
8) Where can we see or play a demo of the game?
Undead Viking did a very nice overview of the main mechanics of the game and thinks its the perfect entry point for everyone.
9) What is your personal favorite mechanic or aspect of the game?
Battles are super fun and very physical. Opponents throw their dice (oftentimes a handful of them) and count the dots. Some of the dots are blank to begin with but can be powered up, event cards can be used at any time, the faction’s special abilities may be triggered… there are several mechanics that add tension to a fight, and it’s definitely our favorite part of the game.
10) What are your reward levels?
We have kept things simple: you can select the English edition or Spanish edition of the game. And of course there’s a bulk-order option!
11) Any thing else we should know about Ether Wars?
It’s a fantastic game that will hook all your gaming group in seconds. Also, it’s a passion project by two incredibly committed gamers and we think their efforts deserve to be brought to reality.
12) Could you tell us about a stretch goal you’re particularly excited about?
We have announced the first few, and the most interesting of them are the Ether Gems, a Kickstarter exclusive goal. Ether is such an important asset that it deserves to be special on the table!
13) Where can we find you on Twitter or Facebook, or anywhere else on the web?
We welcome everyone to our social media- Twitter and Facebook.
You can find Ether Wars on Kickstarter and add it to your own collection!
